After an exciting WWDC 2024, Apple has introduced the developer beta of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. The good news? It’s accessible to everyone, non-developers included, for free. If you’re eager to try out an early version of the new OS, follow our guide to install it on your iPhone or iPad.
Before You Begin
A word of caution: beta software, especially early developer beta versions, is unfinished and may contain bugs. Consider carefully before installing it on any device you depend on. These versions may not include all the features of the final release. It’s crucial to back up your device’s data in case things go wrong.
What New Features Come with iOS 18?
iOS 18 brings a plethora of new features, including:
- Apple Intelligence: Apple’s new AI system, available this fall.
- Customizable Home Screen and Control Center: More options to personalize your interface.
- App Authorization: Require authorization for specific apps.
- Expressive Messages App: Enhanced messaging features.
- Revamped Photos App: New tools and functionalities for photo management.
Which Devices Support iOS 18?
iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will work on the following devices. Note that the beta of Apple Intelligence, available this fall, will initially support US English on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and devices with M1 and later chips.
iPhones:
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
- iPhone SE (2nd-gen or later)
iPads:
- iPad Pro (M4), 12.9-inch (3rd-gen and later), 11-inch (1st-gen and later)
- iPad Air (M2), Air (3rd-gen and later)
- iPad (7th-gen and later)
- iPad Mini (5th-gen and later)
How to Install the iOS 18 Developer Beta
Apple has simplified the process for installing beta releases of iOS and iPadOS. Follow these steps to install the iOS 18 developer beta on your iPhone (the process for iPadOS is similar):
- Check Your Current iOS Version: Ensure your iPhone is running iOS 16.4 or later by navigating to Settings > General > About.
- Enroll in the Developer Beta Program: If you haven’t signed up for the developer beta, enroll here by scrolling down to “Start Your Enrollment.” If you’re already enrolled, simply go to the developer site, sign in, and select “Download.” Don’t forget to enable Developer Mode in Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Access Beta Updates: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. You should see a “Beta Updates” option under “Automatic Updates.” Select “Beta Updates” and ensure the correct Apple ID is displayed at the bottom of the screen. If not, tap on the ID and select “Use a different Apple ID.”
- Select the Developer Beta: Choose “iOS 18 Developer Beta” (or “iPadOS 18 Developer Beta”) under Beta Updates.
- Download and Install: Return to Settings > General > Software Update. You should now see the beta update available. Select “Download and Install” and follow the on-screen instructions.
